In an intervention that aims to drive the global recovery of the pandemic impacted industry, the United Nations World Tourism Organization has invited all member states, stakeholder businesses and individuals involved in the industry to celebrate the upcoming World Tourism Day.
Celebrated every year on the 27th September globally, the UNWTO has announced the theme of this year’s edition as inclusivity, with a focus on tourism for inclusive growth, acknowledging that “behind every number, there is a person”.
In a statement, the global body advises “UNWTO invites its member states, as well as non-members, sister UN agencies, businesses, and individuals to celebrate tourism’s unique ability to ensure that nobody is left behind as the world begins to open up again and look to the future.
“This is an opportunity to gain a holistic perspective: rather than simply looking at stats, growth and monetary benefits, the industry needs to look at development, wellness, and overall inclusive growth.
“(As) the revival of the tourism industry will induce employment, growth, and more opportunities … the motif of this year’s World Tourism Day is to help people from all communities and regions to get the benefits of the world tourism sector fairly.”
The UNWTO’s statement continues “the COVID-19 pandemic has had a massive social and economic impact. Both developed and developing economies have been hit … and marginalised groups and the most vulnerable have been hit hardest of all.”
First marked in 1980, the UNWTO added World Tourism Day “is precious to the industry and the world economy as it celebrates tourism’s social, cultural, economic, and political value.
“Apart from that, the sector is swiftly moving towards sustainable development goals. Many agencies around the world have pledged to adhere to the 17 sustainable development goals.”
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Image courtesy of Tourism New Zealand.
About the author
Nigel Benton
Co-founder/Publisher, Australasian Leisure Management
Born in the English county of Dorset, Nigel Benton is the co-founder and Publisher of Australasian Leisure Management, Australia, New Zealand and the Asia-Pacific’s only magazine for professionals in all areas of the leisure industry and the www.ausleisure.com.au website - the go to news resource for industry leaders and professionals.
With a long-term commitment to communicating all that is best about the leisure industry (aquatics, attractions, entertainment, events, fitness, parks, recreation, sport, tourism and venues) his career has been defined by an ability to develop and implement industry communications.
Starting his career working in heritage visitor attractions and then adventure travel in Africa and the Middle East, an interest in writing about his experiences led to his change of career into magazine journalism and publishing.
In addition to publishing, Nigel speaks on marketing communications at a range of industry events.
He was made a Life Member of the World Leisure and Recreation Association in 2006 and is a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society (London).
In 2020, he launched the new Asian Leisure Business website.
As of October 2024, he was inducted into the Australian Fitness Awards Roll of Honour at the 2024 AUSactive National Awards.
Among a range of published works and features, his comments on a Blog (blogspot) from 2007 to 2011, when this website went live in its current form, may be interesting to reflect back on.
His philosophy on life is to be kind to all and to indulge those that you love.
His passions include family, Newcastle United and motorcycles (especially British ones) as well, until February 2025 when she left us, caring a little pug named Stella.
Click here to connect with him via LinkedIn.
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